Grant Description

Bridges Project expands postsecondary access for people of all ages, with an emphasis on students who are the first generation in their families to seek vocational certificates and degrees.

Tracking Metric

Description
Bridges’ vision is to help our clients enhance their ability to improve their lives and that of their families, and by extension contribute positively to the broader economy and social welfare of our community. Since 1997, we’ve served 3,000+ clients. Bridges accomplishes this by aligning our programming with three goals. While the goals are somewhat sequential, there's exchange between them. (1) Students will have accurate information, early enough, and will develop vision and agency to actively choose an appropriate postsecondary path. (2) Students who choose to pursue a postsecondary education path will complete the essential steps to access a school that's affordable and a good fit. (3) Those who enroll will complete their program and contribute back to the Taos community. Bridges programs include: College Connections, an early engagement pilot program; free individualized counseling providing guidance through the admissions and financial aid process; and support for Bridges’ alumni to increase certificate and degree completion. For many, education must take a back seat as families struggle to satisfy their basic needs. Schools have fewer funds to hire college counselors, and parents whose transition to adulthood did not include postsecondary education can find it difficult to guide their own children toward an unfamiliar experience. Without additional support, the cycle continues, with each generation increasingly marginalized by fewer options and opportunities.

Goal
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